Why Outdoor Play Is More Important Than Ever for Children in 2026

In a world where children are spending more time indoors and on screens than ever before, outdoor play has never been more important. Many parents are now actively looking for ways to reconnect their children with nature, movement and real-world experiences.

At A Touch of the Wild in Devon, we see every day how powerful outdoor learning can be. When children are given the freedom to explore woodland environments, climb trees, build dens and cook around the campfire, they develop skills that simply can’t be taught in a classroom.

So why is outdoor play becoming such an important conversation in education today?

Children Are Spending Less Time Outside

Compared to previous generations, many children now spend far less time outdoors. Busy family schedules, safety concerns and the rise of digital entertainment have all played a role.

Yet childhood has always been rooted in exploration. Running through woodland, digging in mud, climbing logs and discovering insects are not just fun activities, they are vital experiences for healthy development.

Outdoor play allows children to move freely, use their imagination and learn through real experiences rather than screens.

This is one of the reasons Forest School and nature-based education are becoming increasingly popular with families across the UK.

The Benefits of Outdoor Play for Children

Outdoor environments naturally encourage curiosity, creativity and resilience. When children spend time in nature, they gain far more than just fresh air.

Physical Health

Outdoor play encourages children to run, climb, balance and jump. These natural movements help develop strength, coordination and overall fitness.

Woodland environments are especially beneficial because they provide varied terrain, natural obstacles and opportunities for adventurous play.

Confidence and Independence

When children climb a log, cross a stream or build their own den, they experience a sense of achievement.

Small challenges help children develop confidence and independence. They learn that they are capable of solving problems and taking safe risks.

These experiences are incredibly valuable for building resilience.

Creativity and Imagination

Nature is the ultimate open-ended playground.

A stick becomes a fishing rod. A fallen tree becomes a pirate ship. A pile of leaves becomes a fairy nest.

Without structured toys or screens, children are free to invent their own games and stories.

Social Skills

Outdoor play also encourages teamwork and communication. Children naturally work together to build shelters, collect materials or solve challenges.

These shared experiences strengthen friendships and teach valuable social skills.

The Power of Forest School Learning

Forest School learning takes outdoor play even further by combining exploration with guided learning experiences.

At A Touch of the Wild, children regularly enjoy activities such as:

• Building woodland dens
• Learning safe tool use
• Campfire cooking
• Nature crafts
• Wildlife exploration
• Climbing and balancing activities

These experiences allow children to connect with nature while developing practical skills and confidence.

Our woodland setting provides a safe and nurturing environment where children are encouraged to explore, take healthy risks and develop a lifelong love of the outdoors.

How Parents Can Encourage Outdoor Play at Home

The good news is that encouraging outdoor play doesn’t require expensive equipment or complicated plans.

Here are some simple ideas families can try:

Go on regular nature walks

Local parks, woodland trails and beaches offer wonderful opportunities for exploration.

Let children lead the way and follow their curiosity.

Create a nature treasure hunt

Ask children to look for:

• Birdsong
• Budding leaves
• Interesting stones
• Feathers or pinecones

Treasure hunts make walks exciting and encourage observation skills.

Try simple nature crafts

Collect leaves, sticks and flowers to create:

• Nature collages
• Stick frames
• Leaf printing

Creative activities help children connect with the natural world.

Let children get messy

Mud kitchens, puddle jumping and digging are all part of the joy of childhood.

Sometimes the best learning happens when children are simply allowed to explore freely.

Discover the Magic of Outdoor Learning in Devon

At A Touch of the Wild, we believe childhood should be filled with adventure, curiosity and time in nature.

Our sessions give children the chance to climb trees, explore woodland, cook on the campfire and learn new skills in a fun and supportive environment.

Families can join us for:

• Wild Tots sessions for toddlers and preschoolers
• Wildlings Forest Kindergarten
• Woodland Adventure Clubs and holiday sessions

These experiences help children grow in confidence, develop friendships and build a lifelong connection with the natural world.

If you’re looking for a way to bring more outdoor play into your child’s life, we’d love to welcome you into the woods.